Long-term storage accounts; credits; percentage
The amendment specifies that credits to long-term storage accounts can be granted based on certain criteria, particularly for water that cannot reasonably be used directly. The bill sets out precise rules for how water stored during specific periods can accrue credits, thus playing a critical role in the state’s drought contingency planning. The provision aims to allocate up to fifteen thousand acre-feet per year towards these credits, which underscores the state’s commitment to managing its water resources effectively, especially in the face of ongoing drought conditions.
SB1387 amends the Arizona Revised Statutes to establish regulations concerning long-term storage accounts for water. Introduced by Senator Sundareshan, this bill is aimed at enhancing the management of underground water storage in Arizona. The legislation outlines procedures for the establishment of long-term storage accounts, which will be managed by the director and will include necessary subaccounts based on the geographical areas where stored water is located. This structure aims to facilitate better tracking and management of water resources across various regions.
While SB1387 focuses on the effective management of water, there are points of contention regarding the specifics of how water crediting is approached, particularly for managing effluent in designated facilities. Critics may argue about the implications of such management on local aquifers and the fairness of credits assigned, especially concerning environmental impacts associated with effluent storage. Some stakeholders may view these regulatory changes as either an appropriate response to water scarcity or as potentially failing to ensure the safety and sustainability of local water supplies.